All posts in Life

Are you putting off your holiday shopping until the last minute? If so, you’re not alone.

Nearly 53 % of people end up putting off shopping for gifts until the last minute. Not enough time and not enough money are two of the biggest reasons cited for gift procrastination, and a lot of this has to do with the mindset of holiday purchases.

Buying used items was once taboo, but lately has come into vogue. “It’s the thought that counts” has caught on in many different areas of life, including in the items we purchase. This year, you don’t have to put off your shopping due to money constraints. High-end consignment and resale companies like The RealReal are making it easier than ever to purchase unique items in ways that are convenient for the customer. Here are six reasons to consider secondhand shopping for your presents this holiday.

Reason 1: It saves you money.

Think about all the times you’ve spent money on things your loved ones don’t need — like candles, physical copies of movies, or gag gifts. 45% of consumers have admitted to overspending during the holiday season, which has put a lot of pressure on the national debt average. The pressure to buy things new has hindered people’s gift-giving in the past, but it doesn’t need to anymore. Now that you don’t have to worry about putting yourself into debt buying your loved ones presents, you can focus on buying your loved ones the things they want or need.

Make a budget and stick to it, then do your shopping. You’ll find that the more you shop secondhand, the more you can find and the happier you can make people.

Reason 2: It’s better for the environment.

One of the motivations behind luxury resale companies like The RealReal is to slow down fast fashion’s impact on the environment. In the United States alone, as much as 21 billion pounds of fabric makes up landfills. Unfortunately, fast fashion isn’t slowing down even as landfills are piling up. If consumers were to continue using clothes at the rate they have been and letting them end up in landfills, we would have to further exploit natural areas for landfill space.

Additionally, fast fashion is one of the top contributors to carbon emissions in the world. Luxury clothing and accessory consignment, instead, aims to make the sale of apparel cyclical — meaning nothing is wasted.

For the RealReal, the process looks like this: consumers send their item to The RealReal for evaluation, the piece is then authenticated, marketed, and sold to someone secondhand. The whole process is multifaceted in its benefits. It prohibits landfills from becoming overrun with usable fabric, it slows the demand for raw resources related to clothing and accessory production, and it slows carbon emissions globally. The person who once owned the item, as well as the platform the used garment is marketed on, all make a profit. Finally, the new customer receives a quality item at far less of a cost than it usually would cost.

Reason 3: It helps you focus on what your loved ones want.

Let’s face it — we’ve all been in the situation before where we’ve been so focused on getting something for our loved ones that we have lost sight of what they wanted. In other words, we’ve impulse-bought items in the past. 80% of Millennial-aged shoppers admitted to impulse buying this year, and the pressure to impulse buy during the holidays is even higher. Instead, focus on making lists (or gathering lists) of things your loved ones want. Then, incorporate secondhand shops like The RealReal into your shopping routine to get the most out of your shopping.

Reason 4: Luxury consignment lets you get higher-quality items for your loved ones.

Another symptom of impulse purchases is that you might end up getting something for lower-quality to save a little money. Knockoff and department store brands might have cheaper deals on new items, but that does not mean those products will last. Purchasing luxury items at lower costs, even pieces that are used, means you are gifting your loved ones quality gifts while still being able to save a little bit of money.

Reason 5: It is convenient.

If you live in a city, chances are you live near a consignment or thrift store. After all, there are over 25,000 secondhand stores in the United States alone. If you don’t live in or near a city, however, online consignment brands like The RealReal make it easy for consumers to purchase and receive their items quickly. You can even do your shopping while you’re on a break at work — so you have a little more time to yourself during the holidays.

Reason 6: The items you purchase will almost always be unique or hard-to-find.

One of the biggest fears that we face when it comes to buying presents for our loved ones is the fear that we’ll purchase them something they already have. Most people have received something that they already own as a present, and even more, have received duplicates of the same item. Purchasing an item from a secondhand retailer, like The RealReal, means that you will likely not be giving the same present to a loved one that someone else is. High-end fashion items usually are released on a limited basis, meaning they are harder to find in the first place. If you find a vintage item, these are not only valuable but useful and unique. Likely, if you’re buying an object used, the gift recipient will not only like it but will be receiving an item unlike anything else on their list.

Buying used is not only trendy and fashionable — it makes sense. Now more than ever, there are quality secondhand stores available worldwide that are more than willing and able to bring their customers authentic luxury goods, as well as other secondhand deals that are sure to be a hit this holiday.

Up Next on the Dishh:

5 Women’s Outerwear Types & How to Pair Them in Winter 2019

You may be one of those gals that thinks that investing in one simple coat for the winter is a viable fashion choice. However, you should really think about collecting a variety of outerwear to suit every occasion and to match every outfit. Why? Well, first of all, coats of different lengths, hefts, and styles are designed for different kinds of weather. 

But, the reason why most women want to build an entire coat wardrobe is so they can match any ensemble they put together. Here are some examples of must-have coats and accompanying outfits that simply match them to a tee.

1. Overcoat

An overcoat is the winter time’s answer to the classic trench. And, like the trench, it is long enough to keep you warm, but it also has the requisite thickness for the season. They are extraordinarily elegant and sophisticated. It is also timeless, and, as such, every woman should have this classic hanging in their coat closet.

Overcoats come in assorted colors, but the most popular hues would have to be black, navy blue, red, white, and camel. These neutrals match with nearly anything, but the elegance of the silhouette makes it the perfect 9-to-5 work coat. After all, it is perfectly-matched with a wool scarf, shiny black gloves, and a briefcase or tote bag.

Beneath your overcoat, try a power blazer in an eye-catching color, such as jewel green which will certainly get attention. A crisp dress blouse with a bow closure in front, reminiscent of those worn by glass ceiling-breaking 80s businesswomen, cinches this look, along with a black, mid-length pencil skirt, and black leather knee-high boots. Throw on a simple necklace and a pair of diamond studs and you have a career woman look updated for 2019.

2. Faux-fur Jacket

Faux-fur is ultra-feminine and reminiscent of old-school Hollywood glamour, yet it is still responsible and in line with today’s values. The 2019 version of the fur is now waist-length or a bit below that. Faux-furs also come in a plethora of colors rather than just those hues that are designed to emulate the animals that they are meant to replicate. This season’s colors include yellow, wine-red, and blue.

While these funky spins on a classic design can be combined with nearly any outfit, they really accentuate most evening dresses with their sophistication. This is especially true with the upcoming winter holidays. They counter yet complement the quintessential “little black dress,” while they can also match sparkly, sequin-covered evening wear paired with black tights, a statement necklace, chandelier earrings, and bejeweled stiletto heels. A velvet hat and gloves complete the outfit.

3. Denim Jacket

A denim jacket certainly is a must-buy for all women. Though it did go out of style for a bit in the 90s, probably because the grunge movement wanted nothing in common with hair bands, it made a comeback around the turn of the last century and has been uber-popular ever since. The retro piece is now a must-have, and it works so well with the new Western wear look that has been sweeping the country.

For example, a cropped jean jacket would look great with a girly peasant blouse paired with dark or stressed jeans and rugged Western boots. In lieu of a scarf, a rope-like, suede choker works well, and you can top it all off with a chic cowboy hat. To up the cuteness factor, braid your hair into pigtails!

4. Quilted Jacket

Quilted jackets were quite obscure just a couple of years ago, but they are now common outerwear that can be dressed both up or down, depending on the outfit you are wearing beneath them. The warm, cozy feel of these coats is comforting throughout the winter months, yet they also have a lightweight quality to them that makes them the perfect choice to compliment a bulky, oversized cable knit sweater.

Try a sweater in a bright, solid color and pair it with patterned leggings. Finish off this fresh fashion choice with comfy, fur-lined, suede booties with small chunky heels. To lengthen your torso, try a nearly waist-length necklace, or one that is double that length and wrapped around twice. Match this with hoop earrings and a beret and you are ready for a sleigh ride!

5. Leather Jacket

A little bit edgy, but still strictly casual, this particular jacket adds style to any don’t-give-a-care ensemble. It brings the sexy without overdoing it. Create a rebel look by placing it over a vintage or vintage-inspired modern rock tee, along with minimal jewelry and silky scarf wrapped around the neck multiple times with still enough length to hang a bit. Go totally punk with biker boots, fingerless gloves, and light-blue skinny jeans torn just enough to expose both knees. The style is timeless and it is sure to show everyone who is really in control each time you walk into a room. What’s more, with a little leather dye, you can keep your leather jacket looking new each season.

In conclusion, each woman should have enough variety in her coat collection to match any winter outfit that she dares to put together. The jackets listed here are basics that all women should have because they are not only classics, but they will be sure to have the perfect coat for every occasion. After all, a true fashionista would never have a one-size-fits-all coat that she wears everywhere. Variety is the spice of life!

Are you looking for a great wedding gift that will last for generations to come? It seems like every guest has the same ideas when it comes to wedding presents. Wall art, kitchenware, and tons of monogrammed décor are some of the favorites. Worried about getting the perfect gift? 

Don’t be. There are far less cliché gifts to get your favorite couple. These heirloom-worthy wedding gifts will let your favorite couple know how much they mean to you for decades to come.

An Antique Hope Chest or Writing Desk

Antique furniture pieces are an icon of heirloom gifts, and they make for great wedding presents. Look for a unique hope chest or pick up a vintage writing desk. Your friends are sure to appreciate the effort you put into picking a great showpiece for their home and for their children to inherit.

You should be able to find a plethora of options at your local antique furniture store. Consider the decor styles that fit your friends’ home and be sure to write a sweet note to go along with it as a keepsake. Inquire about the history of the piece and include that in the note as well.

A Rare Book for Reading Enthusiasts

If your friends love to read, look for an early printed copy of one of their favorite books. It’s not difficult to find a great deal on a popular edition of timeless classic literature. You don’t need to spend thousands on a first edition, but a semi-rare hard-copy from their favorite author could be a huge thoughtful gesture. The best part is that early pressings may increase in value as their rarity grows. That makes rare books an awesome family heirloom that can last decades from children to grandchildren.

A Silver Picture Frame

If a picture says a thousand words, a beautiful silver picture frame turns it into a novel. Every couple wants to preserve the memory of their wedding forever. It represents the moment when they dedicated their lives to each other for eternity. 

A classic silver frame adds the perfect touch to a perfect moment. The best thing about silver is that it can endure a lifetime of being moved, packed, and passed down to a generation created by the couple’s love for one another.

An Engraved Music Box

There aren’t many gifts more timeless than a delicately made music box. You can personalize your choice of gift with options like extravagantly jeweled to modest minimalist designs. The focus should be making the gift unique. A customized message on the inside means that you put extra effort into your sentiment.

A Quality Musical Instrument
If your friends are musically inclined, a small guitar or a grand piano (if you want to go big) would wow your friends and all of the other wedding guests. A very nice stringed instrument could be the perfect gift for under $1000 to a couple that loves music. If you’re looking for a smaller gift, search for a beautiful mandolin or ukulele. Classical instruments can last for generations to come, and again, an engraved message is an opportunity to add sentimental value. 

A Grandfather Clock

If you want to make a grand impression at your next wedding party, seek out grandfather clocks at your local vintage shop or look online for a newer model. This wedding present will get lots of attention. Antique grandfather clocks can require a lot of maintenance, so keep that in mind if you go that route. Modern versions are much easier to handle, and they don’t require constant adjusting. The new couple will have a daily reminder of your thoughtfulness every time the clock chimes. It’s a bonus that it will work as a great conversation piece for guests.

When we think of thermostats, we think of modern homes and the pursuit of efficiency but the idea of a thermostat has been around for centuries. Ancient Greeks invented central heating and the ancient Egyptians created the first primitive air conditioning unit. Of course, thermostats have evolved significantly since those first attempts but what’s clear is how important temperature control has always been for us to live more comfortably, especially when we are at home. 

So if ancient Greeks and Egyptians were looking for more comfort back when things weren’t as easy, shouldn’t we have it easier these days with so much advancement in technology? Enter the smart thermostat. While the mechanical thermostat has served us for many years, the smart thermostat is proving to be far more beneficial for homeowners. A smart thermostat will reduce your energy bill significantly. It will regulate your home’s temperature and create heating zones where you need them such as in your living room. 

A smart thermostat will let you create an automatic heating schedule and it is an ideal choice if you enjoy a specific temperature in your home. This technology will adapt to the changes in the weather and keep a constant sense of coziness, so you can always feel at ease the minute you enter your home. Once you install a smart thermostat, the technology is easy to use from home or with your cell phone or tablet. For more information about the smart thermostat, here’s an infographic depicting the fascinating history of this often-undervalued gadget.

Did you know there are roughly 2.7 million miles of paved roads in the United States? That’s enough to stretch around the globe 110 times. While those roads can be fun to drive, there are also a series of incredibly dangerous highways that claim over 30,000 drivers each year. 

If you have a road trip planned in the near future, then it may be in your best interest to avoid these roads at all costs. These are the most dangerous roads in the United States.

Highway 99, California

Spanning a total of 424 miles, Highway 99 travels through California’s Central Velley. Changing from four lanes to two as enters rural territory, this stretch of road retains an average of 0.62 fatal crashes each mile. That doesn’t include non-fatal car accidents. 

U.S. Route 1

Notably the longest vertical highway in the United States, Route 1 stretches all the way from Maine to Florida. Its 2,369 miles allow it to be the most dangerous highway in Florida, Maine, and Maryland. In just one decade, America’s first route claimed over 1,000 lives. 

U.S. Route 550

Nicknamed the “Million Dollar Highway,” Route 550 passes through San Juan Mountains in Colorado. Willed with sharp turns and winding mountain roads, both of which lack guardrails, plenty of drivers have accidentally taken the plunge over its many edges. 

Oregon Coast Highway

While this highway starts in Los Angeles and ends in Washington, the dangerous portion lies on Oregon’s coast. With an average of 34 fatal accidents per year, these 363 miles are ones you may want to avoid. The scenery is beautiful, but the winding roads are treacherous when wet. 

Interstate 285

Atlanta’s I-285 also makes this list. Known as The Perimeter, this 63-mile loop links every interstate in the city. Given its location, that means an intense amount of traffic. With its sharp turns and interchanges, there are accidents here on a daily basis. 

James Dalton Highway

Opening to the public in 1974, this Alaskan highway was featured in the television series Ice Road Truckers. Ice is a common hazard, but what makes this road so dangerous is that it is almost entirely remote. There are only three towns along the way and the road is patrolled by helicopters to keep an eye out for accidents. 

Interstate 4

This 132-mile stretch leads from Tampa to Daytona Beach. It averages almost 1.5 fatalities each mile, earning it the ranking of one of the most dangerous interstates in the country. Personal injury attorneys are quick to point out that the dangers on this road come from Florida’s laid-back texting and driving laws. 

Interstate 17

Located entirely in the state of Arizona, this interstate offers stunning views from Flagstaff to Phoenix. That beauty, however, is coupled with extreme heat and an average of 0.84 deaths per mile. Take into account its 176-mile stretch, and that’s a lot of fatal accidents. 

US-83

Finally, there’s US-83. This road stretches across the Canadian border before heading through Middle-America to Mexico. Its length contributes to its dangerous rating, but the Texas portion of the road holds the highest number of vehicular deaths with 26 fatal crashes a year. The Texas part of US-83 has held these high numbers for over a decade.  

Your HVAC system is capable of doing a good job of keeping your home warm or cold, but it would really not be able to work at its best without a thermostat. The thermostat is the main control for your HVAC system and it goes a long way to influence its efficiency. 

Different thermostat models have additional features like energy reports, maintenance notifications, and the capacity to link with other devices in your home. You can always call in a professional who will be able to help you with the installation and repair of the thermostat for your HVAC system. In this article, you will learn about the various types of thermostats you can choose from for your HVAC system.

The Different Types of Thermostats

Image via Flickr by czarcats

The different basic types of thermostats for your HVAC system are as follows:

• Wi-fi Thermostats
• Smart thermostats
• Programmable thermostats
• Non-programmable thermostats

Wi-Fi Thermostats 

Wi-Fi thermostats run on wireless networks. You can use your smartphone or computer to gain access to a wireless network. The wi-fi thermostat is perfect for those who want to control the temperature setting in their homes when they are not at home. You can adjust the thermostat and control temperature remotely via a wireless network.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats fit in with various automation equipment and tools in your home. After some time, it will be able to adjust the temperature in your home autonomously after learning the various living routines in your home. After learning when you come home, it will adjust itself based on these recorded conditions and gives your home the right cooling and heating conditions.

You can have access to smart thermostats via your smartphones, computer, or tablet connected to a wireless network. If you are tech savvy, smart thermostats can be a good addition to your home. Though the price can be on the high side, smart thermostats help you reduce energy costs; moreover, the comfort you receive will go a long way to making it feel worth it.

Programmable Thermostats

Most programmable thermostats have both daily and weekly settings. They can be preprogrammed to adjust the temperature in your home during the day or at night. You can also set it to a moderate temperature on days when you are away from home.

Climates with drastic temperature changes will find programmable thermostats very useful. They provide the convenience of not having to manually set the temperature for your home every morning and night.

Non-Programmable Thermostats

For those who are always at home, non-programmable thermostats can be a good option for their HVAC systems. You can always manually adjust the temperature to your choice. Unlike the programmable thermostat, you can’t pre-adjust the thermostat temperature setting.

Choosing a good and appropriate thermostat for you HVAC system will depend on a lot for factors. With the information above about the different types of thermostats that are available, you’ll have an easier time making the right choice for your home and lifestyle.

Now that the kids are back in school, you might have more time to focus on home improvement projects. Autumn is the perfect season for making preparations for the winter and addressing indoor and outdoor problems that you might have been putting off all summer. There are plenty of cost effective DIY projects you can tackle, and as for the big ones—this is an especially slow time for contractors so give them a call!

Clean Out the Gutters

Image via Flickr by Field Outdoor Spaces

Not a favorite task among homeowners, but cleaning out your gutters is a job that must be done—preferably before the frigid air makes it unbearable to be outside and up on a ladder. When you remove leaves and other debris from your gutters, water flows more easily and is less likely to make a detour into your house. A backed-up gutter also can cause damage to the roof. While you’re up there, consider installing mesh guards to prevent your drainage system from getting clogged up in the first place.    

Repair or Install a Deck

Now that the deck isn’t being used as often, it’s the good opportunity to address those much-needed repairs. Does your deck have a loose or falling apart railing, ripped deck boards, or a faded finish? These problems may get worse over the winter months. Therefore, these are excellent reasons to call in a professional contracting company. Typically, these fixes can be done in less than a day. If you’d like to get a head start on next year’s warmer months, it’s not too late to get a new deck project going. Cedar, perhaps?

Install a Programmable Thermostat 

This small, DIY quick-fix is not only energy efficient, but money saving too. Putting in a new, programmable thermostat will allow your home to be on a smarter heating/cooling schedule, which is especially great when you’re not home for long periods of time. Your heating bills won’t be such a shock and the temperature in your home will always be at your level of comfort. 

Paint the Front Door

Painting the front door takes but an afternoon, yet the results last much longer. You can make your door look newer simply—and its curb appeal—will benefit too. Such a project is not advisable during the sweltering heat, as the paint will dry faster than you can apply it. Aim for 50 degree weather. Any colder and the paint won’t adhere properly. 

Power Wash the Exterior 

If you’d like your home to look newer, but don’t want to invest in an exterior paint job just yet, consider giving your home a power wash. The transformative results will amaze you. Your house exterior can collect a lot of dirt and debris over the years—nothing that a professional can’t handle!

There are many smart, cost-effective projects you can take on during the autumn season. Not only will these fixes improve the value of your home, but make it a more pleasant place to live when the colder temps roll in. 

Winter can be a tough time of year for your appliances. During the wintertime, your HVAC system is working hard to keep your family warm. If you value the longevity of your unit, winter preparation should become a seasonal habit. Winterizing your unit can save you money and help you avoid a winter emergency during extreme temperatures. Learn how you can winterize your HVAC unit and why it’s important.

Why HVAC Systems Fail During The Winter

Image via Flickr by Forest Service Photography 

The significantly cooler temperatures can cause your heating system to go out prematurely during the winter. Your heating unit is working overtime to keep your family warm in the winter. Many people spend more time indoors during the winter, causing your heating to run more frequently than your cooling system. More importantly, when you fail to get maintenance, your HVAC unit will suffer and cause a system failure.

How To Prepare Your HVAC System For The Winter 

It’s important to constantly have your HVAC unit checked by a professional. They understand what components need to be examined to ensure your equipment is prepared for the winter. Having a professional look over your heating components will save you money on future expenses.

Clean Your Air Ducts

Cleaning your air ducts helps avoid constricting the heat coming from your HVAC unit. Unkept air ducts or a dirty filter can cause your system to pull harder and could damage many mechanical parts. Cleaning air ducts will also help homeowners avoid those musty odors that accumulate from dirty air ducts. A certified, trusted HVAC company will provide excellent same day services for emergency maintenance and repairs. A professional understands that cleaning the air ducts can do a great job of keeping the kids healthy and avoid bad indoor air pollutants.

Install Additional Insulation Systems

Not having the proper heating insulation can cause your home to lose 25% more energy. Insulation is very important during the winter months. Consumers should also ensure they have good, insulated air ducts. The extra wear and tear from an overworked heating system can cause them to break down. The experts suggest customers to always have properly sealed air ducts.

Hire a Professional

Hiring a professional is always a great way of getting your HVAC unit ready for the winter. They have the expertise to assess and make repairs or replace parts in your unit. Preventative maintenance provides you an opportunity to catch malfunctions before they occur, become worse, or cause you to have to replace your unit. 

The best way to prolong the life of your HVAC unit is by getting routine maintenance every six months. Most people believe it’s best to have their heating unit replaced just before the winter, but having it repaired during the off-peak season can have you well prepared for the winter and save you money.

If you still have questions about how to prepare your HVAC system for the cold weather, contact your local area professionals today. Don’t get stuck out in the cold this winter!